After nearly three decades on parallel career paths in industries like pharmaceuticals and utilities, 1992 chemistry graduate Tom Baker and 1989 electrical engineering alum Patrick Thomas have joined forces and thought processes in an unconventional consulting firm, Pathom Inc. The firm is pioneering a Value Discovery Methodology approach that brings innovative solutions for a growing list of clients worldwide.

Their quick understanding of each client's situation through intensive observation, data analysis, and hands-on experimentation allows them to rapidly pinpoint and test potential solutions before deciding on the most impactful options. Pathom’s structured problem-solving processes has roots in Lean Six Sigma and integrates concepts from the science and psychology of creativity and innovation, like understanding cognitive bias. 

"Value Discovery is designed to efficiently get low-cost, low-risk solutions that maximize value," said Thomas, the company’s president and holder of 17 patents. “We love applying this approach in new ways. Sometimes it really challenges the robustness of our approach.”   

Baker, the chief executive officer, added, "There's a different way to consult that avoids the massive capital outlays, uncertainties, and standardized solutions associated with traditional consulting. Our methodology embraces more of a venture capital-style approach to deliver realistic, achievable ideas with maximum payoff at low cost and risk to the client."

Pathom cites more than 1,300 occasions where their real-world solutions have delivered $514 million in value to clients in 33 countries.

For instance, the company’s Life Highlights visual tool is helping skilled nursing home facilities provide person-centered, high-quality medical care for senior citizens impaired by Alzheimer’s. Baker commented, “My mother struggled with dementia for five years. Life Highlights will make the world a better place for seniors in care.”

By observing workflows and understanding a U.S. protein producer’s company culture, the alumni duo uncovered ideas that boosted productivity by $16 million. In another case, they accelerated the launch of a utility company's continuous improvement program, which was falling behind schedule. Pathom's analysis revealed ways to increase the program's pace, quality, and engagement, generating hundreds of new improvement ideas.

Additionally, Thomas and Baker used thermal imaging and experiments with local materials to create micro-climate solutions, allowing poultry farmers in India to better control living conditions for their flocks. This improved the farmers' quality of life by eliminating the need to constantly stay with the birds.

By combining technical knowledge from their Rose-Hulman education with insights gained across multiple industries over decades, Baker and Thomas are pioneering a nimbler, more cost-effective approach to tackling business challenges. Their passion remains making things better through an entrepreneurial lens on strategic change. 

“We’re making life better for others. All of that came from the lessons learned and caring attitude developed at Rose. You don’t get through Rose without lots of support,” says Thomas, who was a star football linebacker and 1999 Rose-Hulman Athletic Hall of Fame inductee. 

Baker, a former varsity soccer goalkeeper, adds, “Perseverance and hard work are key components to the success of any Rose-Hulman graduate. The ability to work with others to solve problems has been the secret to (Pathom’s) success. We get things done on time and within budget. Our clients really like that.”